Hydrometer calibration

[MusselDoc]

Do you calibrate your hydrometer?

I just checked mine with the water I use to brew and it read 1.002 (at room temp 67-68 F). Thought maybe there was malt residue in there, so I cleaned it thoroughly and read another sample. Same reading.

So, do I just subtract 0.002 from my OG and FG readings?

(At the rate I break these things though, I'll have an accurate one soon enough

 

[Hex]

Are you reading from the top or the bottom of the meniscus? Sometimes it's hard to discern 0.002 difference. I'm sure you can find the formula for x grams table sugar in y milliliters H2O for say a 1.100 reading.

 

[downinit]

I believe all hydrometers are calibrated to read gravity at 60 degrees F, so you need to take the wort temperature as well and then adjust the gravity. It should come with a paper showing how to correct for temp.

 

[Shay]

I think you need to use distilled water to check it. Tap water has minerals in it.